KUALA LUMPUR: The official local listing by Tesla of the Model Y has resulted in a scramble by local grey market retailers to get rid of existing stock.
Models from the Tesla catalogue, especially the Model Y, are seeing discounts of up to 50 per cent across numerous local online car selling platforms.
While some vendors have remained steadfast with their high prices (up to around RM400,000) a number of them have opted to readjust values to remain competitive and cut losses.
The standard range Model Y has officially been listed by the manufacturer to be priced from RM199.000.
While it may not be the most affordable sports utility vehicle (SUV) or electric vehicle (EV) around, the announced price is below expectations by at least RM50,000 to RM100,000.
The official price also greatly affects the more premium automotive brands selling EVs given Tesla's mega popularity on the global stage.
The huge shake up in the market reveals the risks of buying unofficial imports and paying arguably hiked prices bordering on exorbitant by comparison.
Tesla does not service vehicles in grey markets according to their quick guide for ownership experience in non-core or grey markets, and with grey vehicles.
The only solution for these owners is the reliance on third party workshops and assist.
While grey imports aren't necessarily reconditioned (recon) or considered as used cars, the only way for Malaysians to buy and own a Tesla prior to its official launch is through unofficially importing them.
In short you would be buying an unofficial car with no official local support for the same price, or higher.
The Model Y is expected to make its official local debut during Tesla Malaysia's launch on July 20.